The Heart of It: Hamlet and Macbeth

Hamlet and Macbeth are two dramas by William Shakespeare that have been thrilling audiences for centuries. Both have been adapted to radio and film and continue to be taught in high schools and universities. But as with most of Shakespeare' s works, modern audiences sometimes need some help absorbing elements of both plays. In a series of lectures, literary scholar Elizabeth McNamer provides engaging insights into these two Shakespeare classics. Providing glimpses into each play' s most compelling moments, Dr. McNamer first focuses on Hamlet, regarded by many as the greatest drama ever written. Because he is given much to philosophizing, the Danish prince fails to act— and this procrastination becomes Hamlet' s downfall. McNamer then tackles Shakespeare's most gruesome tragedy. Macbeth, who has murdered his way to the crown, finds there only a murderer's reward— no peace, no love, no honor, no friends— only curses. While these lectures are grounded in scholarly research, they are also accessible for contemporary audiences, helping them appreciate more fully these two great works.